Castor Oil: Benefits and Possible Side Effects

Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***.

Many of you may wrinkle your nose as you think of childhood memories of swallowing a spoonful of castor oil to cure your ailment. Its strong taste mirrors its cleansing strength as a medicinal product. There are a number of castor oil benefits that have been discovered and passed on over the years. We will discuss these as well as any possible castor oil side effects to give you the information you need to decide whether castor oil is right for you.

So, what is castor oil? Basically, it is an oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant. Centuries ago, it was used as a poison to kill people as it contains toxic, germicidal, disinfectant, and purgative properties. Even with a low-dose intake, one can experience vomiting and diarrhea. This is where the oil’s medicinal uses come in as it has been thought to help combat colds, coughs, fevers, indigestion, and skin disorders. Because it induces vomiting, it has been a primary treatment method for accidental poison ingestion and invaders such as tapeworms and roundworms.

What Are the Benefits of Castor Oil?

The purported castor oil benefits stem from the belief that the castor plant targets the stomach. It is used mainly for illnesses or ailments that begin in the stomach.

1. Rheumatism

Castor oil is used as a topical treatment for the conditions of rheumatism, gout, and arthritis. It contains fatty acids such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, and ricinoleic acid. It is also combined with medicines to create a powerful treatment.

2. Menstrual Disorders

The ricinoleic acid in castor oil may also work as a natural pain reliever during menstruation. It targets issues that may hinder the flow process.

3. Skin Care

Castor oil may help clear rashes and redness caused by fungal or bacterial infections when used as a topical treatment. The oil’s powerful undecylenic acid has germicidal and disinfectant properties. Its natural antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-microorganism properties make castor oil for acne and other skin problems a viable solution.

4. Constipation

Castor oil has been used for years as a purgative tool, and this includes using it as a laxative. Low dosages are recommended when using castor oil for constipation.

5. Lactation

Castor oil may work as a natural booster for the production and flow of breast milk. The fatty acids in castor oil could increase the quantity of milk. It is recommended to use low dosages of any cold-compressed form of castor oil.

6. Hair Care

The common hair problems of dryness and hair loss may be rectified with the use of castor oil, which has fungicidal, insecticidal, and germicidal properties. It has ricin and ricinoleic acid that defend against infections of the scalp and hair follicles. Castor oil for hair issues can also moisturize the scalp.

7. Improves Immune System

Castor oil benefits may include boosting the functioning of the immune system by improving blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and the overall health of the thymus gland. By helping these functions, it has a direct effect on the digestive and circulatory systems.

8. Boosts Circulation

Castor oil helps promote good blood circulation, which in turn boosts the immune system. It also detoxes our systems.

9. Balance Hormones

As a natural cleanser, castor oil promotes hormone production since it gets rid of toxins. This balances the hormones, which in turn promotes good blood flow. Healthy circulation could help to prevent symptoms of PMS such as mood swings, depression, and fatigue.

10. Induces Labor

Traditionally, when women have had difficulty with childbirth, they have been given castor oil to induce labor. The ricinoleic acid reportedly stimulates the EP3 prostanoid receptors within the uterus to speed up contractions.

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Castor Oil?

While there are many castor oil benefits, precautions must be taken when consuming the natural remedy. The same oil that may help heal ailments was once used as a dangerous substance in great quantities. To help you sort through the risks, we have broken down the possible side effects of using castor oil.

1. Nausea

For some, the use of castor oil can be detrimental to the stomach. The ricinoleic acid in the oil may stimulate gastrointestinal issues that cause nausea.

2. Diarrhea

While castor oil is a primary natural laxative for severe constipation, it may cause severe diarrhea in some cases.

3. Skin Rash

Another counteractive effect of castor oil may be skin rashes caused by an allergic reaction. Before using the oil as a topical treatment for skin disorders, it is advisable to test it out on a small patch of skin.

4. Muscle Cramps

One of the side effects of castor oil is cramping of the abdominal muscles. This may happen even when the oil helps with other abdominal issues.

5. Dizziness

Use of castor oil in high dosages may cause dizziness or light-headedness.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.